Acrylic block copolymers for aerosols and aerosol adhesives

ABSTRACT

An aerosol is described comprising a composition comprising an acrylic block copolymer, a solvent, and a propellant. An article is described comprising the aerosol contained within a pressurized containment vessel comprising a valve. An aerosol mist is also described comprising droplets of an adhesive composition, wherein the adhesive composition comprises an acrylic block copolymer, a glass transition temperature modifier, and optionally an additive.

TECHNICAL FIELD

Aerosol compositions and articles therefrom are described. In someembodiments, the aerosol is an adhesive.

BACKGROUND

Adhesive compositions may be applied to a substrate via extruding (e.g.,the adhesive is melt extruded onto the substrate, or coextruded with thesubstrate), blowing (e.g., the adhesive is blown into microfibers),solvent coating (e.g., the adhesive is solublized and/or dispersed in asolvent, applied to a substrate, and the solvent is evaporated off),spraying (e.g., an adhesive is contained in a container and a secondarymeans of pressure is used to propel the adhesive from the container), oraerosol spraying (e.g., the adhesive and a propellant are enclosed in acommon container and the propellant is the sole source of energy topropel the adhesive from the container).

Aerosol spraying of an adhesive presents specific challenges and,therefore, not all adhesive compositions may be used for aerosolspraying. For example, the aerosol adhesive should not only provideadequate adhesion once dispensed, but should flow out of the vessel in ausable spray, should not gum up the delivery mechanism (such as thevalve or actuator), and should not cause soak-in of the substrate towhich it was applied.

Aerosol adhesives may include a polymer, which along with any glasstransition temperature modifiers is the adhesive; a solvent, which actsto dilute or suspend the adhesive; a propellant, which acts to propelthe adhesive composition from the containment vessel; and any additionaladditives. The aerosol adhesive may be classified based on its spraypattern, as: (i) a mist (or particle) spray, (ii) a lace (or web) spray,or (iii) a combination of a mist spray and a lace spray.

Mist sprays deliver small particles of adhesive in a round or fan shapepattern with minimal to no cobwebbing (or strings) observed in the spraypattern and a variable amount of overspray. Mist sprays may be furthercategorized as a fine mist spray or a coarse mist spray. One skilled inthe art would be able to distinguish coarse mist spray from fine mistspray based on the particle size distribution. Mist sprays deposit auniform coat of adhesive that is not visible through thin materials suchas paper. Traditionally, mist sprays produce a drier application ofadhesive than lace sprays because less of the aerosol adhesive soaksinto the substrate. Mist spray adhesives are typically based oncross-linked polymers, which are not solubilized in the containmentvessel (i.e., the polymer is not soluble in the solvent). Thesecross-linked polymers, therefore, may settle out of solution and thecontainment vessel often needs to be shaken before use. Shaking of thecontainment vessel may not be practical when the containment vessel is alarge canister weighing several hundred pounds. Recently, mist sprayshave been formulated with hydrogenated styrenic block copolymers thatare soluble in the solvent. See for example, European Pat. No. 0 616 018(Nguyen). However, the mist sprays made with hydrogenated styrenic blockcopolymers typically give a low strength temporary or removable type ofadhesive due to the low amount of adhesive delivered out of thecontainment vessel. Typically, mist sprays have a solids content ofadhesive of about 5 to 25% by weight versus total weight.

Lace sprays deliver a string (or cobwebbed) pattern of adhesive in acontrolled fan shaped pattern with little or no overspray. Lace spraysmay be further categorized as a light lace spray or a heavy lace spray.One skilled in the art would be able to distinguish a light lace sprayor a heavy lace spray based on the thickness of the resulting adhesive.Lace sprays give a textured surface of adhesive, generally give athicker bondline than mist sprays, and are considered a higher strengthadhesive than the mist spray adhesives. Lace sprays traditionally arebased on soluble polymers such as, e.g., styrene block copolymers (e.g.,styrene-butadiene-styrene (SBS), styrene-isoprene-styrene (SIS),styrene-ethylene-butylene-styrene (SEBS), styrene-ethylene-butylene(SEB), styrene-ethylene-propylene-styrene (SEPS),styrene-ethylene-propylene (SEP)), styrene-butadiene rubber, ethylenevinyl acetate, neoprene, and nitrile. Typically, lace sprays have asoluble polymer concentration of less than 25% by weight versus totalweight.

SUMMARY

There is a need for improved aerosol compositions. For example, aerosoladhesives that comprise a higher content of adhesive in the spray, areenvironmentally friendly (i.e., use non-VOC (volatile organic compound)solvents), are easier to use (e.g., no need to shake before use), and/orgive improved adhesive performance.

In one aspect, an aerosol is described comprising an acrylic blockcopolymer, a solvent, and a propellant.

In another aspect, an article is described comprising an aerosolcontained within a pressurized containment vessel comprising a valve,wherein the aerosol comprises an acrylic block copolymer, a solvent, anda propellant.

In another aspect, an aerosol mist is described comprising droplets ofan adhesive composition, wherein the droplets comprise an acrylic blockcopolymer, a glass transition temperature modifier, and optionally anadditive.

The above summary is not intended to describe each disclosed embodimentor every implementation of the present invention. The detaileddescription which follows, more particularly exemplifies illustrativeembodiments.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

As used herein, the term

“a”, “an”, “the”, and “at least one of” are used interchangeably andmean one or more;

“and/or” is used to indicate one or both stated cases may occur, forexample A and/or B includes, (A and B) and (A or B);

“interpolymerized” refers to monomers which are polymerized together toform a polymer backbone;

“room temperature” refers to a temperature in the range of 20° C. to 25°C.;

“(meth)acrylate” refers to compounds containing either an acrylate or amethacrylate structure or combinations thereof;

“copolymer” refers to a polymeric material comprising at least twodifferent interpolymerized monomers (i.e., the monomers do not have thesame chemical structure) and include terpolymers (three differentmonomers), tetrapolymers (four different monomers), etc.;

“polymer” refers to a polymeric material comprising interpolymerizedunits of the same monomer (a homopolymer) or of different monomers (acopolymer); and

“glass transition temperature” or “T_(g)” refers to the temperature atwhich a polymeric material transitions from a glassy state to a rubberystate. The glassy state is typically associated with a material that is,for example, brittle, stiff, rigid, or combinations thereof. Incontrast, the rubbery state is typically associated with a material thatis, for example, flexible and elastomeric.

Also herein, recitation of ranges by end points includes the end pointsand all numbers subsumed within that range (e.g., 1 to 10 includes 1.4,1.9, 2.33, 5.75, 9.98, etc.).

Also herein, recitation of integer ranges by end points includes the endpoints and all integers subsumed within that range (e.g., 1 to 10includes 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, etc.).

The present disclosure relates to an aerosol, which is a liquidsubstance that when dispensed from a pressurized container is releasedas a suspension of fine solid particles, liquid droplets, or fibrousstrands in a gas. For purposes of this disclosure, the aerosol dispensesas a mist-type of pattern, a lace-type of pattern, or some combinationof a mist-type of pattern and a lace-type of pattern.

The aerosol of the present disclosure comprises a composition comprisingan acrylic block copolymer. “Block copolymers” of the present disclosureare elastomeric components in which chemically different blocks orsequences are covalently bonded to each other. Block copolymers includeat least two different polymeric blocks that are referred to as the Ablock and the B block. The A block and the B block may have differentchemical compositions and different glass transition temperatures.

Block copolymers of the present disclosure can be divided into four mainclasses: di-block ((A-B) structure), tri-block ((A-B-A) structure),multi-block (-(A-B)_(n)-structure), and star block copolymers((A-B)_(n)-structure). Di-block, tri-block, and multi-block structuresmay also be classified as linear block copolymers. Star block copolymersfall into a general class of block copolymer structures having abranched structure. Star block copolymers are also referred to as radialor palmtree copolymers, as they have a central point from which branchesextend. Block copolymers herein are to be distinguished from comb-typepolymer structure and other branched copolymers. These other branchedstructures do not have a central point from which branches extend.

The acrylic block copolymers of the present disclosure comprise at leastone acrylic monomer. Exemplary acrylic block copolymer may comprisemonomer units including: alkyl ester methacrylates such as, e.g., methylmethacrylate, ethyl methacrylate, n-propyl methacrylate, isopropylmethacrylate, n-butyl methacrylate, isobutyl methacrylate, s-butylmethacrylate, t-butyl methacrylate, n-hexyl methacrylate, cyclohexylmethacrylate, 2-ethyl hexyl methacrylate, n-octyl methacrylate, laurylmethacrylate, tridecyl methacrylate, stearyl methacrylate, isobornylmethacrylate, benzyl methacrylate, or phenyl methacrylate; alkyl esteracrylate such as, e.g., n-hexyl acrylate, cyclo hexyl acrylate, 2-ethylhexyl acrylate, n-octyl acrylate, lauryl acrylate, tridecyl acrylate,stearyl acrylate, n-butyl acrylate, isobutyl acrylate, sec-butylacrylate, tert-butyl acrylate, or 2-octylacrylate; (meth)acrylate esterssuch as, e.g., those having the following ester groups: methoxyethyl(meth)acrylate, ethoxy ethyl(meth)acrylate, diethyl aminoethyl(meth)acrylate, 2-hydroxy ethyl(meth)acrylate, 2-aminoethyl(meth)acrylate, glycidyl(meth)acrylate, tetrahydrofurfuryl(meth)acrylate; isobornyl(meth)acrylate, and combinationsthereof.

The acrylic block copolymer may comprise additional monomer units, forexample, vinyl group monomers having carboxyl groups such as, e.g.,(meth)acrylic acid, crotonic acid, maleic acid, maleic acid anhydride,fumaric acid, or (meth)acryl amide; aromatic vinyl group monomers suchas, e.g., styrene, α-methyl styrene, or p-methyl styrene; conjugateddiene group monomers such as, e.g., butadiene or isoprene; olefin groupmonomers such as, e.g., ethylene, or propylene; or lactone groupmonomers such as, e.g., ε-caprolactone or valero lactone; andcombinations thereof.

In one embodiment of the present disclosure, the acrylic block copolymercomprises: at least two A₁ endblock polymeric units that are eachindependently derived from a monoethylenically unsaturated monomercomprising a (meth)acrylate monomer, a styrenic monomer, or combinationsthereof, wherein each A₁ endblock has a glass transition temperature ofat least 50° C.; and at least one B₁ midblock polymeric unit that isderived from a monoethylenically unsaturated monomer comprising a(meth)acrylate monomer, vinyl ester monomer, or combinations thereof,wherein each B₁ midblock has a glass transition temperature no greaterthan 20° C., with the proviso that at least one A₁ endblock polymericunit or one B₁ midblock polymeric unit is derived from amonoethylenically unstaturated monomer comprising (meth)acrylate. The A₁blocks have a glass transition temperature of at least 50° C. and the B₁block has a glass transition temperature no greater than 20° C. In manyexemplary block copolymers, the A₁ blocks have a glass transitiontemperature of at least 50° C., at least 60° C., at least 80° C., atleast 100° C., at least 120° C., at least 140° C., or at least 150° C.,while the B₁ block has a glass transition temperature of no greater than20° C., no greater than 10° C., no greater than 0° C., no greater than−10° C., no greater than −20° C., no greater than −40° C., no greaterthan −60° C., no greater than −80° C., or no greater than −100° C.

Briefly, the A₁ endblock polymeric units comprise a (meth)acrylatemonomer, a styrenic monomer, or combinations thereof. As used herein todescribe the monomers used to form the A₁ block polymeric units, theterm “combinations thereof” means that more than one type of monomer(e.g., a methacrylate and styrene) or more than one of the same type ofmonomer (e.g., two different methacrylates) can be mixed. The A₁ blocksin the block copolymer can be the same or different. In many blockcopolymers, all of the A₁ block polymeric units are derived from thesame monomer or monomer mixture.

In the A₁ endblock polymeric units, the (meth)acrylate monomers arereacted to form the A₁ blocks. Any (meth)acrylate monomers can be usedas long as the T_(g) of the resulting A₁ block is at least 50° C. The(meth)acrylate monomers can be, for example, alkyl methacrylates, arylmethacrylates, or aralkyl methacrylate of Formula (I).

In Formula (I), R¹ is an alkyl, aryl, or aralkyl (i.e., an alkylsubstituted with an aryl group). Suitable alkyl groups often have 1 to 6carbon atoms, 1 to 4 carbon atoms, or 1 to 3 carbon atoms. When thealkyl group has more than 2 carbon atoms, the alkyl group can bebranched or cyclic. Suitable aryl groups often have 6 to 12 carbonatoms. Suitable aralkyl groups often have 7 to 18 carbon atoms.

Exemplary alkyl methacrylates according to Formula (I) include: methylmethacrylate, ethyl methacrylate, isopropyl methacrylate, isobutylmethacrylate, tert-butyl methacrylate, cyclohexyl methacrylate, orcombinations thereof. In addition to the monomers of Formula (I),isobornyl methacrylate can be used. Exemplary aryl methacrylatesaccording to Formula (I) include: phenyl methacrylate. Exemplary aralkylmethacrylates according to Formula (I) include: benzyl methacrylate,2-phenoxyethyl methacrylate, or combinations thereof.

In some embodiments, the A₁ endblock polymeric units comprise a styrenicmonomer. Exemplary styrenic monomers that can be reacted to form the A₁blocks include: styrene, alpha-methylstyrene, and various alkylsubstituted styrenes such as, e.g., 2-methylstyrene, 4-methylstyrene,ethylstyrene, tert-butylstyrene, isopropylstyrene, dimethylstyrene, orcombinations thereof.

The B₁ midblock polymeric of the embodiment mentioned above may bederived from (meth)acrylate monomers, vinyl ester monomers, orcombinations thereof. That is, the B₁ midblock polymeric unit is thereaction product of a second monomer selected from (meth)acrylatemonomers, vinyl ester monomers, or combinations thereof. As used hereinto describe the monomers used to form the B₁ midblock polymeric unit,the term “combinations thereof” means that more than one type of monomer(e.g., a (meth)acrylate and a vinyl ester) or more than one of the sametype of monomer (e.g., two different (meth)acrylates) can be combined.The B₁ blocks are often derived from acrylate monomers of Formula (II).

In Formula (II), R² is an alkyl with 1 to 22 carbons or a heteroalkylwith 2 to 20 carbons and 1 to 6 heteroatoms selected from oxygen orsulfur. The alkyl or heteroalkyl group can be linear, branched, cyclic,or combinations thereof.

In some embodiments, acrylate monomers are reacted to form the B₁ block.Exemplary alkyl acrylates of Formula (II) that can be used to form theB₁ block polymeric unit include: ethyl acrylate, n-propyl acrylate,n-butyl acrylate, isobutyl acrylate, t-butyl acrylate, n-pentylacrylate, isoamyl acrylate, n-hexyl acrylate, 2-methylbutyl acrylate,2-ethylhexyl acrylate, 4-methyl-2-pentyl acrylate, n-octyl acrylate,2-octyl acrylate, isooctyl acrylate, isononyl acrylate, decyl acrylate,isodecyl acrylate, lauryl acrylate, isotridecyl acrylate, octadecylacrylate, dodecyl acrylate, or combinations thereof.

Exemplary heteroalkyl acrylates of Formula (II) that can be used to formthe B₁ block polymeric unit include: 2-methoxyethyl acrylate,2-ethoxyethyl acrylate, or combinations thereof.

Some alkyl methacrylates can be used to prepare the B₁ blocks such as,e.g., alkyl methacrylates having an alkyl group with greater than 6 to20 carbon atoms. Exemplary alkyl methacrylates include: 2-ethylhexylmethacrylate, isooctyl methacrylate, n-octyl methacrylate, isodecylmethacrylate, lauryl methacrylate or combinations thereof. Likewise,some heteroalkyl methacrylates such as, e.g., 2-ethoxy ethylmethacrylate can also be used. In still other embodiments, the B₁ blockpolymeric unit is derived from vinyl ester monomers. Exemplary vinylesters include: vinyl 2-ethyl-hexanoate, vinyl neodecanoate, orcombinations thereof. In one particular embodiment, the acrylic blockcopolymer is a tri-block copolymer and each A₁ endblock comprises thereaction product of alkyl methacrylate monomers and the B₁ midblockcomprises the reaction product of alkyl(meth)acrylates monomers. SeeU.S. Pat. Appl. No. 61/057532 (Joseph et al.) for a further descriptionof these A₁ and B₁ block copolymers and the selection of monomers.

Regarding the manufacturing method of the acrylic block copolymer thatis used in the present disclosure, no particular limitations are placedas long as the polymers that satisfy the conditions of this inventionbased on the chemical structure can be attained; and the method inaccordance with already known methods may be adapted. In general, aliving polymerization method may be used to attain a block copolymerwith a narrow molecular weight distribution. Such living polymerizationmethods include, for example, polymerization using an organic rare earthmetal complex as a polymerization initiator, anion polymerization usingan organic alkali metal compound as a polymerization initiator in thepresence of mineral acid salt such as, e.g., a salt of an alkali metalor an alkali rare earth metal, anion polymerization using organic alkalimetal compound as a polymerization initiator in the presence of anorganic aluminum compound, or atomic transfer radical polymerization(ATRP). Additional information regarding methods of making acrylic blockcopolymers may be found, for example, in U.S. Pat. No. 6,806,320(Everaerts et al.).

The acrylic block copolymers of the present disclosure may have a numberaverage molecular weight (Mn) of at least 50,000 daltons, at least100,000 daltons, at least 300,000 daltons, at least 1,000,000 daltons,or even at least 1,500,000 daltons. In one embodiment, the acrylic blockcopolymers have a molecular weight between 75,000 and 150,000 daltons.

In some embodiments, more than one block copolymer is used. For example,multiple block copolymers with different weight average molecularweights or multiple block copolymers with different concentrations ofthe block polymeric units can be used.

The use of multiple block copolymers with different weight averagemolecular weights or with different amounts of the block polymeric unitscan, for example, improve the adhesion properties of composition.

In one embodiment of the present disclosure, the aerosol is an adhesive.A glass transition temperature modifier such as one or more tackifiers,one or more plasticizers, or combinations thereof may be added to thecomposition to improve the adhesive properties of the composition.Plasticizers and tackifiers are used to adjust the glass transitiontemperature and/or to adjust the modulus of the composition of thecomposition to improve the adhesion of the composition to a substrate.Plasticizers and tackifiers known to those skilled in the art may beused.

Examples of suitable plasticizers include: hydrocarbon oils (e.g., thosethat are aromatic, paraffinic, or naphthnenic), hydrocarbon resins,polyterpenes, rosin esters, phthalates (e.g., terephthalate), phosphatesesters, dibasic acid esters, fatty acid esters, polyethers (e.g., alkylphenyl ether), epoxy resins, sebacate, adipate, citrate, trimellitate,dibenzoate, or combinations thereof. The plasticizers may be present inthe composition in any suitable amount, such as for example, amounts upto about 50 parts by weight, 70 parts by weight, or even up to about 100parts by weight, based on 100 parts by weight of the acrylic blockcopolymer.

Examples of suitable tackifiers include rosins and their derivatives(e.g., rosin esters); polyterpenes and aromatic-modified polyterpeneresins; coumarone-indene resins; hydrocarbon resins, for example, alphapinene-based resins, beta pinene-based resins, limonene-based resins,aliphatic hydrocarbon-based resins, aromatic-modified hydrocarbon-basedresins; or combinations thereof. Non-hydrogenated tackifiers resins aretypically more colorful and less durable (i.e., weatherable).Hydrogenated (either partially or completely) tackifiers may also beused. Examples of hydrogenated tackifiers include, for example:hydrogenated rosin esters, hydrogenated acids, hydrogenated aromatichydrocarbon resins, hydrogenated aromatic-modified hydrocarbon-basedresins, hydrogenated aliphatic hydrocarbon-based resins, or combinationsthereof. Examples of synthetic tackifiers include: phenolic resins,terpene phenolic resins, poly-t-butyl styrene, acrylic resins, orcombinations thereof.

Any suitable amount of tackifier may be used. In some embodiments, thetackifier may be present in the composition in an amount of greater thanabout 40 parts by weight based on 100 parts by weight of the acrylicblock copolymer. Optionally, the tackifier may be present in an amountof about 40 parts by weight to about 400 parts by weight, 40 parts byweight to about 200 parts by weight, 60 parts by weight to about 140parts by weight, or even 80 parts by weight to about 120 parts byweight, based on the weight of the acrylic block copolymer. Higheramounts of tackifier may be desired, however, particularly whenformulating heat-activated adhesives.

In some embodiments, the tackifiers may also be selectively combined toimprove the performance of the composition. Rosin tackifiers such as,e.g., rosin acids, are typically a mixture of compounds and isomers.Each of the rosin acids and rosin esters typically has three fusedcarbon rings and has zero, one, two, or three carbon-carbon doublebonds. See, for example, Cheng, N. H., Adhesives Age, 1988 p. 37-38.Often, each tackifier is a mixture of rosin acids and/or rosin esterswith differing degrees of unsaturation (i.e., differing degrees ofsaturation), which may be determined by 1H NMR (nuclear magneticresonance). Because of the difference in saturation or hydrogenation ofthe tackifier, various tackifiers will have a different solubility inthe acrylic block copolymer and in the various polymeric units of theacrylic block copolymer. For example, a tackifier with a higher degreeof saturation is less compatible or less miscible with the elastomericregions of the acrylic block copolymer than a tackifier that has a highdegree of unsaturation. By knowing the degree of unsaturation present inthe tackifier, various tackifiers may be combined to achieve a desirableeffect. Described next are two different embodiments of tackifiermixtures.

In one embodiment, the composition comprising the acrylic blockcopolymer may comprise a first solid tackifier having a glass transitiontemperature of at least 20° C. and comprising a rosin having at least 35weight percent of rosin isomers containing olefinic hydrogens; and asecond solid tackifier having a glass transition temperature of at least20° C. and comprising a rosin having no greater than 35 weight percentof rosin isomers containing olefinic hydrogens.

These two tackifiers differ from each other in their degree ofsaturation. The first solid tackifier is more hydrogenated than thesecond solid tackifier. Stated differently, compared to the second solidtackifier, the first solid tackifier has a higher degree of saturationand a lower degree of unsaturation.

Each of the first and second solid tackifier can contain, for example, amixture of rosin acids of and/or isomers thereof and/or rosin estersthereof. The distribution of these rosin acids and/or rosin esters inthe first solid tackifier and in the second solid tackifiers, however,is typically different. Compared to the second solid tackifier, thefirst solid tackifier typically contains a greater amount of a firstrosin acid and/or first rosin ester having rosin isomers comprisingolefinic hydrogens from unsaturation (typically 2 double bonds), suchas, e.g., abietic acid, neoabietic acid, pimaric acid, isopimaric acid,or similar isomers. This does not include the aromatic dehydroabieticacid isomer, which is aromatic. Compared to the first solid tackifier,the second solid tackifier typically contains a lesser amount of a firstrosin acid and/or first rosin ester having rosin isomers comprisingolefinic hydrogens from unsaturation.

Typically, at least 30 weight percent of the first solid tackifier is arosin isomer comprising olefinic hydrogens from unsaturation. Someexemplary first solid tackifiers contain at least 35 weight percent, orat least 40 percent of a rosin isomer comprising olefinic hydrogens fromunsaturation. Typically, no greater than 35 weight percent of the secondsolid tackifier is a rosin isomer comprising olefinic hydrogens fromunsaturation. Some exemplary second solid tackifiers contain less than25 weight percent, or less than 15 percent of a rosin isomer comprisingolefinic hydrogens from unsaturation.

In another embodiment, the acrylic block copolymer composition maycomprise a first solid tackifier having a glass transition temperatureof at least 20° C. and comprising at least 70 weight percent of a firstrosin acid, rosin ester, or combinations thereof having zero or onecarbon-carbon double bond; and a second solid tackifier having a glasstransition temperature of at least 20° C. and comprising no greater than50 weight percent second rosin acid, rosin ester or combinations thereofhaving zero or one carbon-carbon double bond, and a third liquidtackifier having a glass transition temperature less than or equal to 0°C.

The two solid tackifiers in the adhesive compositions have a glasstransition temperature that is at least 20° C. These two tackifiersdiffer from each other in their degree of saturation. The first solidtackifier is more hydrogenated than the second solid tackifier. Stateddifferently, compared to the second solid tackifier, the first solidtackifier has a higher degree of saturation and a lower degree ofunsaturation.

Each of the first and second solid tackifier can contain, for example, amixture of rosin acids of and/or isomers thereof and/or rosin estersthereof. The distribution of these rosin acids and/or rosin esters inthe first solid tackifier and in the second solid tackifiers, however,is typically different. Compared to the second solid tackifier, thefirst solid tackifier typically contains a greater amount of a firstrosin acid and/or first rosin ester having zero or one carbon-carbondouble bonds. Additionally, compared to the first solid tackifier, thesecond solid tackifier often, but not necessarily always, contains agreater amount of a second rosin acid and/or second rosin ester havingtwo carbon-carbon double bonds. The first and second solid tackifiersdiffer most in the amount of third rosin acid and/or third rosin esterhaving three carbon-carbon double bonds and in the amount of the firstrosin acid and/or first rosin ester having zero or one carbon-carbondouble bond.

The first solid tackifier often contains more hydrogenated rosin acidsand/or rosin esters than the second solid tackifier. Typically, at least70 weight percent of the first solid tackifier is a first rosin acidand/or first rosin ester with zero or one carbon-carbon double bond.Some exemplary first solid tackifiers contain at least 75 weightpercent, at least 80 weight percent, or at least 85 percent of the firstrosin acid and/or first rosin ester with zero or one carbon-carbondouble bond. Typically, no greater than 50 weight percent of the secondsolid tackifier is a first rosin acid and/or first rosin ester with zeroor one carbon-carbon double bond. Some exemplary second solid tackifierscontain no greater than 45 weight percent, or no greater than 40 weightpercent of the second rosin acid and/or second rosin ester with zero orone carbon-carbon double bond.

The third tackifier is a liquid or viscous fluid at room temperature orat temperatures near room temperature. This third liquid tackifier has aglass transition temperature that is no greater than 0° C. Like thefirst solid tackifier and the second solid tackifier, the third liquidtackifier is a rosin acid, rosin ester, or a mixture thereof. The thirdliquid tackifier can be a single rosin acid or single rosin ester.Alternatively, the third liquid tackifier can be a mixture of rosinacids and/or rosin esters. For more details related to the threetackifier mixture, see U.S. Pat. Appin. No. 61/057532 (Joseph et al.)for more details.

Photocrosslinkers may also be added for optional subsequent curing byUV-irradiation. Conventional crosslinking agents (both physical andchemical crosslinking agents) can be utilized in the present disclosure.Crosslinkers are optional and may be present in the compositions of thepresent disclosure in any suitable amount, such as, for example, amountsup to about 5 parts by weight based on 100 parts by weight of the totalcomposition.

Other optional additives include, for example, stabilizers (e.g.,anti-oxidants or UV-stabilizers), corrosion inhibitors, pigments, dyes,medicaments, thickeners (e.g., polyamides), or combinations thereof. Useof such additives is well known to those of ordinary skill in the art.The additives may be present in an amount from 0.5% by weight to 5% byweight based upon the weight of the total aerosol mixture. Certainadditives may be of lower weight percent, e.g., a pigment may be addedat less than 0.05% or even less than 0.005% by weight.

Preferred anti-oxidants include phenols, phosphites, thioesters, amines,polymeric hindered phenols, copolymers of 4-ethyl phenols, reactionproduct of dicyclopentadiene and butylene, or combinations thereof.Additional examples include phenyl-alpha-naphthylamine,phenyl-beta-naphthylamine, phenyl-beta-naphthylene, 2,2′-methylene bis(4-methyl-6-tertiary butyl phenol), phenolic-based anti-oxidants soldunder the trade designation “CIBA IRGANOX 1010” by from Ciba SpecialtyChemicals Corp., Tarrytown, N.Y., or combinations thereof.

UV-stabilizers such as UV-absorbers are chemical compounds that canintervene in the physical and chemical processes of photoinduceddegradation. Exemplary UV-absorbers include: benzotriazole compound,5-trifluoromethyl-2-(2-hydroxy-3-alpha-cumyl-5-tert-octylphenyl)-2H-benzotriazole,or combinations thereof. Other exemplary benzotriazoles include:2-(2-hydroxy-3,5-di-alpha-cumylphehyl)-2H-benzotriazole,5-chloro-2-(2-hydroxy-3-tert-butyl-5-methylphenyl)-2H-benzotiazole,5-chloro-2-(2-hydroxy-3,5-di-tert-butylphenyl)-2H-benzotriazole,2-(2-hydroxy-3,5-di-tert-amylphenyl)-2H-benzotriazole,2-(2-hydroxy-3-alpha-cumyl-5-tert-octylphenyl)-2H-benzotriazole,2-(3-tert-butyl-2-hydroxy-5-methylphenyl)-5-chloro-2H-benzotriazole, orcombinations thereof. Additional exemplary UV-absorbers include2(-4,6-diphenyl-1-3,5-triazin-2-yl)-5-hexcyloxy-phenol, and thoseavailable from Ciba Specialty Chemicals Corp. sold under the tradedesignations “CIBA TINUVIN 1577” and “CIBA TINUVIN 900”. In addition,UV-absorber(s) can be used in combination with hindered amine lightstabilizer(s) (HALS) and/or anti-oxidants. Exemplary HALSs include thoseavailable from Ciba Specialty Chemicals Corp. sold under the tradedesignations “CIBA CHIMASSORB 944” and “CIBA TINUVIN 123”.

Corrosion inhibitors are chemical compounds that can intervene in thechemical reactions of the composition with its metal surroundings, e.g.,a storage drum or a containment vessel. Exemplary corrosion inhibitorsinclude: sulphonates, morpholine, benzotriazole, various amines, sodiumbenzoate, sodium nitrite, quaternary ammonium nitrites, sodium silicate,sodium tetraborate, ammonium nitrite, acetylenic derivatives, sodiummolybdate, formamide, or combinations thereof, and others well known tothose of ordinary skill in the art such as those disclosed in “CorrosionInhibitors, An Industrial Guide”, by Ernest W. Flick, 2^(nd) ed., NoyesPublications, Park Ridge, N.J., 1993.

The present disclosure includes a solvent. The solvent is used tosolublize or disperse the composition comprising the acrylic blockcopolymer. The acrylic block copolymer may be soluble in the solvent orinsoluble in the solvent. The glass transition temperature modifiers maybe soluble in the solvent or insoluble in the solvent. The additives maybe soluble in the solvent or insoluble in the solvent. As used herein,“soluble” means that when visually observed, a solution is asubstantially uniform, clear or opalescent solution with no apparentparticulates or gel formation. Soluble can be observed, for example, bycentrifugation which results in no phase separation or change in thecomposition throughout the centrifugation tube, or does not phaseseparate upon aging.

In one embodiment, the weight of the solvent comprises less than 90%,less than 85%, less than 75%, less than 65%, or even less than 55% ofthe combined weight of the composition and the solvent.

Exemplary solvents include: halogenated solvents, aliphatics,cycloaliphatics, aromatics, alcohols, esters, water, ketones, orcombinations thereof. Examples include: methyl acetate, acetone,ethanol, diacetone alcohol, toluene, cyclohexane, hexane, pentane, orcombinations thereof.

In one embodiment, the solvent is a non-volatile organic compound(non-VOC). VOC's are organic compounds that have sufficient vaporpressures such that under normal conditions, vaporize, and enter theatmosphere. Because of the increasing concerns regarding theenvironment, regulations have been implemented to limit the release ofVOCs into the environment. In many locations, VOCs are regulated and theregulations may differ from locale to locale. Therefore, what may beconsidered a non-VOC in one locale may be a VOC in another. For purposesof this disclosure, non-VOC as used herein, refers to those compoundsdeemed to be non-VOC according to 40 CFR (Code of Federal Regulations)§51.100(s) as of the date of filing. Exemplary non-VOC solvents :acetone, methyl acetate, parachlorobenzotrifluoride, methylene chloride,methylated siloxanes (e.g., methyl siloxane), some fluorinated solventmaterials, such as, e.g., 1,1,1,2,2,3,3,4,4-nonafluoro-4-methoxybutanesold under the trade designation “3M NOVEC ENGINEERED FLUID HFE-7100” asavailable from 3M Company, St. Paul, Minn., or combinations thereof. See40 CFR §51.100(s) for a complete list of non-VOC solvents.

Propellant is used to move the contained aerosol out of the containmentvessel. The propellant may include a liquefied gas, a compressed gas, orcombinations thereof.

Liquefied gas propellants are known to those skilled in the art.Exemplary liquefied gas propellants include: dimethyl ether, C1-C4alkanes (such as, e.g., propane, isobutane, butane, cyclobutane, orcombinations thereof), refrigerants, hydrochlorofluorocarbons,hydrofluorocarbons, or combinations thereof. Examples include: propane,isobutane, n-butane, dimethyl ether, tetrafluoroethane,1,1-difluoroethane, or combinations thereof.

In one embodiment, the combined weight of the solvent and the liquefiedgas is less than 90%, less than 85%, less than 80%, less than 75%, lessthan 70%, or even less than 65% of the total weight of the aerosol.

Compressed gases are known to those skilled in the art. Exemplarycompressed gases include: carbon dioxide, nitrogen, nitrous oxide,compressed air, or combinations thereof.

The aerosol may be contained within an aerosol delivery device as knownto those skilled in the art. Such devices include a containment vesselcomprising a valve and/or an actuator. Exemplary valves and/or actuatorscan be obtained from SeaquistPerfect Dispensing, Cary, Ill.; LindalValve Co Ltd, Bedfordshire England; Newman-Green Inc., Addison, Ill.;Precision Valve Corp., Yonkers, N.Y.; and Summit Packaging Systems,Inc., Manchester, N.H. Containment vessels, such as e.g., cylinders,typically have a hose attached between the valve and the actuator (e.g.,spray gun). An exemplary valve manufacturer for cylinders is Grand GasEquipment Inc., Taichung, Taiwan.

In one embodiment, the aerosol is dispensed from the pressurizedcontainment vessel in a mist-type pattern, a lace-type pattern, orcombinations thereof. The aerosol in the mist-type pattern comprisesdroplets of an adhesive composition, wherein the adhesive compositioncomprises an acrylic block copolymer, a glass transition temperaturemodifier, and optionally an additive.

In one embodiment, the aerosol as disclosed herein is an adhesive. Theglass transition temperatures for adhesives vary greatly, depending onthe application from, for example, −60° C. to 100° C., −10° C. to 20°C., 10° C. to 70° C., or even 10° C. to 50° C., when measured by DMA(dynamic mechanical analysis). The type of monomer units used in theacrylic block copolymer, the amount of glass transition modifier, and/orthe amount of additive may be adjusted to obtain an aerosol adhesivehaving sufficient cohesion and rheological effects.

In some embodiments, it is desirable deliver as much adhesive aspossible in an aerosol spray (i.e., deliver a high solids content in thecase of mist sprays or a high amount of soluble polymer concentration inthe case of lace sprays). Typically however, the amount of adhesivedelivered is reduced due to the solvent and propellant needed todisperse or solublize the adhesive. In one embodiment of the presentdisclosure, the solids content of the adhesive sprayed is more than 10%,more than 15%, more than 20%, more than 25%, more than 30%, or even morethan 35% by weight versus total weight. Typically, mist sprays have asolids content of adhesive of about 5 to 25% by weight versus totalweight.

An advantage of aerosol adhesives made from acrylic block copolymers isthat the acrylic block copolymer is UV-resistant and typically does notdiscolor as compared to styrene-butadiene rubber and nitrile aerosoladhesives, which are prone to oxidation and discoloration.

In some embodiments, the aerosol adhesives disclosed herein are usefulfor applying to substrates including: wood, laminates, paper, glass,carbon filter, concrete, ceramics, metals, steel, cloth, composites,plastics, vinyl, rubbers, cardboard, particle boards, plywood,fiberboard, or combinations thereof.

Advantages and embodiments of this invention are further illustrated bythe following examples, but the particular materials and amounts thereofrecited in these examples, as well as other conditions and details,should not be construed to unduly limit this disclosure. All materialsare commercially available, for example from Sigma-Aldrich Corp., St.Louis, Mo., or known to those skilled in the art unless otherwise statedor apparent.

EXAMPLES

In these examples, all percentages, proportions, parts, and ratios areby weight unless otherwise indicated. These abbreviations are used inthe following examples: g =grams, and oz.=ounce.

Example 1

The premix (PM) was prepared by placing 16.7 parts of a di-blockPMMA/PnBA copolymer (available as LA1114 from Kuraray Co., Ltd., Tokyo,Japan.) where PMMA refers to poly methylmethacrylate and PnBA refers topoly n-butyl acrylate), with 33.3 parts of an ethylene glycol ester ofhydrogenated resin (sold under the trade designation “SUPER ESTER A-75”,Arakawa Chemical Inc., Chicago, Ill.), 33.3 parts acetone, and 16.7parts ethanol into a container, which was sealed and placed onlaboratory paint rollers overnight. After removal from the rollers, 90 gof the PM, which was a clear, thinsolution, was weighed into an 8 fluidoz. containment vessel and sealed using a valve (AR-83, SeaquistPerfectDispensing, Cary, Ill.). Liquefied propane (30 g) was pressure chargedinto the sealed containment vessel. Theoretical PM Solids=50.0%,Theoretical PM VOC content=16.7%, Theoretical Aerosol Solids=37.5%,Theoretical Aerosol VOC content=37.5%.

The containment vessel was fitted with an actuator (802-24-20/0890-20FS,SeaquistPerfect Dispensing, Cary, Ill.) and the spray characteristicswere examined. The spray when tested at room temperature showed aslightly coarse mist spray.

Example 2

The PM was prepared by placing 100 parts of a tri-block PMMA/PnBA/PMMAcopolymer (available as LA2140e from Kuraray Co., Ltd.) with 100 partsof an ester of rosin (sold under the trade designation “SYLVALITE RE80HP” Arizona Chemical, Jacksonville, Fla.), 15 parts dioctyl sebacate(Hallstar Solutions Corp., Bedford Park, Ill.), and 400 parts acetoneinto a container, which was sealed and placed on laboratory paintrollers overnight. After removal from the rollers, 96 g of the PM, whichwas a clear, thin solution, was weighed into an 8 fluid oz. containmentvessel, which was then sealed using an AR-83 valve. Liquefied propane(24 g) was pressure charged into the sealed containment vessel.Theoretical PM Solids=35.0%, Theoretical PM VOC content=0%, TheoreticalAerosol Solids=28.0%, Theoretical Aerosol VOC content=20.0%.

The containment vessel was fitted with an 802-24-20/0890-20FS actuatorand the spray characteristics were examined. The spray when tested atroom temperature showed a fine mist spray.

Example 3

The PM was prepared by placing 100 parts of a tri-block PMMA/PnBA/PMMAcopolymer (available as LA2140e from Kuraray Co., Ltd.) with 100 partsof SYLVALITE RE 80HP, 15 parts dioctyl sebacate, 300 parts acetone, and100 parts pentane into a container, which was sealed and placed onlaboratory paint rollers overnight. After removal from the rollers, 96 gof the PM, which was a clear, thin solution, was weighed into an 8 fluidoz. containment vessel, which was then sealed using an AR-83 valve.Liquefied propane (24 g) was pressure charged into the sealed aerosolcan. Theoretical PM Solids=35.0%, Theoretical PM VOC content=16.3%,Theoretical Aerosol Solids=28.0%, Theoretical Aerosol VOC content=33.0%.

The containment vessel was fitted with an 802-24-20/0890-20FS actuatorand the spray characteristics were examined. The spray when tested atroom temperature showed a coarse mist spray with lots of cobwebbing.

Example 4

The PM was prepared by placing 100 parts of a tri-block PMMA/PnBA/PMMAcopolymer (available as LA2250 from Kuraray Co., Ltd.) with 50 parts ofpolyterpene resin (sold under the trade designation “PICCOLYTE A135”,Hercules Inc., Wilmington, Del.), 50 parts ester of hydrogenated rosin(sold under the trade designation “FORAL 85”, Eastman Chemicals,Kingsport, Tenn.), 400 parts acetone, 100 parts cylcohexane, and 40parts methyl amyl ketone into a container, which was sealed and placedon laboratory paint rollers overnight. After removal from the rollers,91 g of the PM, which was a clear, thin solution, was weighed into an 8fluid oz. containment vessel and sealed using an AR-83 valve. Dimethylether (33.6 g) and 8.4 g of liquefied propane was pressure charged intothe sealed containment vessel. Theoretical PM Solids=27.0%, TheoreticalPM VOC content=18.9%, Theoretical Aerosol Solids=18.9%, TheoreticalAerosol VOC content=43.2%.

The containment vessel was fitted with an 802-24-20/0890-20FS actuatorand the spray characteristics were examined. The spray when tested atroom temperature showed a fine mist spray.

Example 5

The PM was prepared by placing 100 parts of a tri-block PMMA/PnBA/PMMAcopolymer (available as LA2250 from Kuraray Co., Ltd.) with 50 parts ofPICCOLYTE A135, 50 parts FORAL 85, 300 parts acetone, 200 partscylcohexane, and 40 parts methyl amyl ketone into a container, which wassealed and placed on laboratory paint rollers overnight. After removalfrom the rollers, 91 g of the PM, which was a clear, thin solution, wasweighed into an 8 fluid oz. containment vessel and sealed using an AR-83valve. Dimethyl ether (33.6 g) and 8.4 g of liquefied propane waspressure charged into the sealed containment vessel. Theoretical PMSolids=27.0%, Theoretical PM VOC content=32.4%, Theoretical AerosolSolids=18.9%, Theoretical Aerosol VOC content=52.7%.

The containment vessel was fitted with an 802-24-20/0890-20FS actuatorand the spray characteristics were examined. The spray when tested atroom temperature showed a fine mist spray.

Example 6

The PM was prepared by placing 90 parts of a tri-block PMMA/PnBA/PMMAcopolymer (available as LA2250 from Kuraray Co., Ltd.) and 10 parts of adi-block PMMA/PnBA copolymer (available as LA1114 from Kuraray Co.,Ltd.) with 100 parts of a hydrogenated rosin (sold under the tradedesignation “FORAL 105-E”, Eastman Chemicals, Kingsport, Tenn.), 60parts butyl acetate, 400 parts acetone, and 40 parts isobutylisobutyrate into a container, which was sealed and placed on laboratorypaint rollers overnight. After removal from the rollers, 59.5 g of thePM, which was a clear, thin solution, was weighed into a 4 oz. Bostonround glass containment vessel with a 20 mm neck and sealed using a 20mm spray valve. 1,1-difluoroethane (25.4 g, sold under the tradedesignation “DYMEL 152a”, E. I. du Pont de Nemours & Co., Wilmington,Del.) was pressure charged into the sealed containment vessel. After theaddition of DYMEL 152a, a single phase clear solution resulted.Theoretical PM Solids=28.6%, Theoretical PM VOC content=14.3%,Theoretical Aerosol Solids=20.0%, Theoretical Aerosol VOC content=10.0%.

The containment vessel was fitted with an actuator (XL-100,SeaquistPerfect Dispensing, Cary, Ill.) and the spray characteristicswere examined. The spray when tested at room temperature showed a finemist spray.

Example 7

The PM was prepared by placing 100 parts of a tri-block PMMA/PnBA/PMMAcopolymer (available as LA410L from Kuraray Co., Ltd.) with 75 parts ofa terpene phenol resin (sold under the trade designation “SYLVARES TP7042”, Arizona Chemical, Jacksonville, Fla.), 300 parts methyl acetate,and 30 parts methyl amyl ketone into a container, which was sealed andplaced on laboratory paint rollers overnight. After removal from therollers, 91 g of the PM, which was a clear, thin solution, was weighedinto an 8 fluid oz. containment vessel and sealed using a variable valve(Lindal Valve Co. Ltd., Bedfordshire, UK). Dimethyl ether (31.2 g) and7.8 g liquefied propane were pressure charged into the sealedcontainment vessel. Theoretical PM Solids=34.7%, Theoretical PM VOCcontent=5.9%, Theoretical Aerosol Solids=24.3%, Theoretical Aerosol VOCcontent=34.2%.

The containment vessel was fitted with an actuator (576×115, LindalValve Co. Ltd., Bedfordshire, UK) and the spray characteristics wereexamined. The spray when tested at room temperature showed anapproximate 4.5 inch wide mist spray with a small amount of cobwebbingin the spray pattern.

Example 8

The PM was prepared by placing 100 parts of a tri-block PMMA/PnBA/PMMAcopolymer (available as LA410L from Kuraray Co., Ltd.) with 75 parts ofSYLVARES TP 7042, 250 parts methyl acetate, and 25 parts methyl amylketone into a container, which was sealed and placed on laboratory paintrollers overnight. After removal from the rollers, 91 g of the PM, whichwas a clear, thin solution, was weighed into an 8 fluid oz. containmentvessel and sealed using a variable valve. Dimethyl ether (31.2 g) and7.8 g liquefied propane were pressure charged into the sealedcontainment vessel. Theoretical PM Solids=38.9%, Theoretical PM VOCcontent=5.6%, Theoretical Aerosol Solids=27.2%, Theoretical Aerosol VOCcontent=33.9%.

The containment vessel was fitted with a 576 x 115 actuator and thespray characteristics were examined. The spray when tested at roomtemperature showed an approximate 3.75 inch wide lace spray with a smallamount of mist overspray.

Example 9: The PM was prepared by placing 100 parts of a tri-blockPMMA/PnBA/PMMA copolymer (available as LA410L from Kuraray Co., Ltd.)with 75 parts of SYLVARES TP 7042, 210 parts methyl acetate, and 20parts methyl amyl ketone into a container, which was sealed and placedon laboratory paint rollers overnight. After removal from the rollers,91 g of the PM, which was a clear, thin solution, was weighed into an 8fluid oz. aerosol can and sealed using a variable valve. Dimethyl ether(31.2 g) and 7.8 g liquefied propane were pressure charged into thesealed containment vessel. Theoretical PM Solids=43.2%, Theoretical PMVOC content=4.9%, Theoretical Aerosol Solids=30.2%, Theoretical AerosolVOC content=33.5%.

The containment vessel was fitted with a 576 x 115 actuator and thespray characteristics were examined. The spray when tested at roomtemperature showed an approximate 2.75 inch wide slightly heavy lacespray.

Example 10

The PM was prepared by placing 16.7 parts of a di-block PMMA/PnBAcopolymer (available as LA1114 from Kuraray Co., Ltd.) with 33.3 partsSUPER ESTER A-75, 33.3 parts acetone, and 16.7 parts ethanol into acontainer, which was sealed and placed on laboratory paint rollersovernight. After removal from the rollers, 90 g of the PM, which was aclear, thin solution was weighed into an 8 fluid oz. containment vesseland sealed using an AR-83 valve. Liquefied propane (30 g) was pressurecharged into the sealed containment vessel. Theoretical PM Solids=50%,Theoretical PM VOC content=16.7%, Theoretical Aerosol Solids=37.5%,Theoretical Aerosol VOC content=37.5%.

The containment vessel was fitted with an 802-24-20/0890-20FS actuatorand the spray characteristics were examined. The spray when tested atroom temperature showed a slightly coarse mist spray.

Example 11

The PM was prepared by placing 6.4 parts of a tri-block PMMA/PnBA/PMMAcopolymer (available as LA2140e from Kuraray Co., Ltd.) with 4.3 parts atri-block PMMA/PnBA/PMMA copolymer (available as LA410L from KurarayCo., Ltd.), 6.4 parts SUPER ESTER A-75, 4.3 parts glycerol ester ofrosin acid (sold under the trade designation “SUPER ESTER W-100” byArakawa Chemical Inc.), 2.2 parts water, 47.5 parts acetone, 25.5 partscyclohexane, and 3.3 parts diacetone alcohol, and 0.1 parts sodiumbenzoate into a container, which was sealed and placed on laboratorypaint rollers overnight. After removal from the rollers, 87 g of the PM,which was a clear, thin solution was weighed into an 8 fluid oz.containment vessel and sealed using an AR-83 valve. Liquefied propane(33 g) was pressure charged into the sealed containment vessel.Theoretical PM Solids=21.6%, Theoretical PM VOC content=28.8%,Theoretical Aerosol Solids=15.6%, Theoretical Aerosol VOC content=48.3%.

The containment vessel was fitted with an actuator (320-20-20, LindalValve Co. Ltd.) and the spray characteristics were examined. The spraywhen tested at room temperature showed a fine mist spray.

Example 12

The PM was prepared by placing 6.9 parts of a tri-block PMMA/PnBA/PMMAcopolymer (available as LA2140e from Kuraray Co., Ltd.) with 4.6 parts atri-block PMMA/PnBA/PMMA copolymer (available as LA410L from KurarayCo., Ltd.), 5.5 parts SUPER ESTER A-75, 3.7 parts SUPER ESTER W-100, 4.6parts water, 46.4 parts acetone, 25.1 parts cyclohexane, and 3.2 partsdiacetone alcohol, and 0.1 parts sodium benzoate into a container, whichwas sealed and placed on laboratory paint rollers overnight. Afterremoval from the rollers, 72.5% of the PM, which was a clear, thinsolution was weighed into an 8 fluid oz. containment vessel and sealedusing an AR-83 valve. Liquefied propane (27.5%) was pressure chargedinto the sealed containment vessel. Theoretical PM Solids=20.7%,Theoretical PM VOC content=28.3%, Theoretical Aerosol Solids=15.0%,Theoretical Aerosol VOC content=48.0%.

The containment vessel was fitted with a 320-20-20 actuator and thespray characteristics were examined. The spray when tested at roomtemperature showed a fine mist spray.

As shown in the Examples above, the PM comprising the acrylic blockcopolymer is soluble in the solvent and surprisingly achieves a mistpattern, a lace pattern, or combinations thereof when sprayed. Further,Examples 1-3, which showed a mist spray pattern had a theoreticalaerosol solids content of greater than 25%, while Examples 8-9, whichshowed a lace spray pattern had a theoretical aerosol solids content ofgreater than 27%.

Foreseeable modifications and alterations of this invention will beapparent to those skilled in the art without departing from the scopeand spirit of this invention. This invention should not be restricted tothe embodiments that are set forth in this application for illustrativepurposes.

What is claimed is:
 1. An aerosol comprising: (a) a compositioncomprising an acrylic block copolymer and a glass transition temperaturemodifier wherein the glass transition temperature modifier comprises: afirst solid tackifier (i) having a glass transition temperature at least20° C. and (ii) comprising a rosin having at least 35 weight percent ofrosin isomers comprising olefinic hydrogens from unsaturation; (b) asolvent comprising at least one non-VOC solvent; and (c) a propellant 2.The aerosol of claim 1, wherein the aerosol comprises no more than 5 wt% water.
 3. The aerosol as in claim 1, wherein the acrylic blockcopolymer is soluble in the solvent.
 4. The aerosol as in claim 1,wherein the weight of the solvent comprises less than 85% of thecombined weight of the composition and the solvent.
 5. The aerosol as inclaim 1, wherein the acrylic block copolymer is a di-block, a tri-block,a multi-block, or a star block copolymer.
 6. The aerosol as in claim 1,wherein the acrylic block copolymer comprises: a) at least two A₁endblock polymeric units that is each independently derived from amonoethylenically unsaturated monomer comprising a (meth)acrylatemonomer, a styrenic monomer, or combinations thereof, wherein each A₁endblock has a glass transition temperature of at least 50° C.; and b)at least one B₁ midblock polymeric unit that is derived from amonoethylenically unsaturated monomer comprising a (meth)acrylatemonomer, a vinyl ester monomer, or combinations thereof, wherein each B₁midblock has a glass transition temperature no greater than 20° C., withthe proviso that at least one A₁ endblock polymeric unit or one B₁midblock polymeric unit are derived from a monoethylenicallyunstaturated monomer comprising a (meth)acrylate.
 7. The aerosol as inclaim 6, wherein the acrylic block copolymer is a tri-block copolymerand each A₁ endblock comprises the reaction product of alkylmethacrylate monomers and the B₁ midblock comprises the reaction productof alkyl(meth)acrylate monomers.
 8. The aerosol as in claim 1, whereinthe acrylic block copolymer comprises a polymeric unit that is derivedfrom a methyl methacrylate monomer.
 9. The aerosol as in claim 1,wherein the acrylic block copolymer has a number average molecularweight of at least 50,000 daltons.
 10. The aerosol as in claim 1,wherein the glass transition temperature modifier comprises: a secondsolid tackifier (i) having a glass transition temperature at least 20°C. and (ii) comprising a rosin having at least 35 weight percent ofrosin isomers comprising olefinic hydrogens from unsaturation.
 11. Theaerosol as in claim 1, wherein the glass transition temperature modifierfurther comprises a second solid tackifier, wherein the second solidtackifier is selected from at least one of: a polyterpene resin, aphenolic resin, a coumarone-indene resin, a terpene phenolic resin, anacrylic resin, a poly-t-butyl styrene, a hydrocarbon oil, a hydrocarbonresin, an epoxy resin, a phthalate, a phosphate ester, a dibasic acidester, a fatty acid ester, sebacate, adipate, citrate, trimellitate,dibenzoate, terephthalate, alkyl phenyl ether, or a polyether.
 12. Theaerosol as in claim 1, wherein the propellant comprises a liquefied gas,optionally wherein the liquefied gas comprises at least one of: propane,isobutane, n-butane, dimethyl ether, tetrafluoroethane,1,1-difluoroethane, or combinations thereof.
 13. The aerosol as in claim1, wherein the propellant is a compressed gas, optionally wherein thecompressed gas is at least one of: carbon dioxide, nitrogen nitrousoxide, compressed air, or combinations thereof.
 14. The aerosol as inclaim 13, wherein the propellant further comprises a liquefied gas,optionally wherein the liquefied gas comprises at least one of: propane,isobutane, n-butane, dimethyl ether, tetrafluoroethane,1,1-difluoroethane, or combinations thereof.
 15. The aerosol as claim 1,wherein a combined weight of the solvent and the propellant is less than90% of the total weight of the aerosol.
 16. The aerosol as in claim 1,wherein the non-VOC solvent comprises acetone, methyl acetate, orcombinations thereof.
 17. The aerosol as in claim 1, wherein thecomposition is an adhesive.
 18. An article comprising an aerosolaccording to claim 1 contained within a pressurized containment vesselcomprising a valve.
 19. An aerosol mist comprising droplets of anadhesive composition, wherein the adhesive composition comprises anacrylic block copolymer, a glass transition temperature modifier, andoptionally an additive.
 20. An aerosol comprising: (a) a compositioncomprising an acrylic linear block copolymer or an acrylic star blockcopolymer and a glass transition temperature modifier wherein the glasstransition temperature modifier comprises: a first solid tackifierhaving a glass transition temperature at least 20° C. and comprising (i)a rosin having at least 35 weight percent of rosin isomers comprisingolefinic hydrogens from unsaturation or (ii) a rosin having less than 20weight percent of rosin isomers comprising olefinic hydrogens fromunsaturation; (b) a non-VOC solvent; and (c) a propellant